ESTROGEN/PROGESTIN - ORAL
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (ES-tra-DYE-ol/nor-JEST-tih-mate)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Activella, Femhrt, Ortho-Prefest, Premphase, Prempro
GENERIC NAME(S): estrogens, conjugated/medroxyprogesterone acetate
Uses
USES: This medication contains 2 female hormones: an estrogen (such as conjugated estrogen, estradiol) and a progestin (such as medroxyprogesterone, norethindrone, norgestimate). It is used by women to help reduce symptoms of menopause (such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness). These symptoms are caused by the body making less estrogen. The progestin in this medication helps to reduce the risk of cancer of the uterus which can be caused by using estrogen. Women who have had their uterus removed do not need the progestin and therefore should not use this combination medication. If you are using this medication to treat symptoms only in and around the vagina, products applied directly inside the vagina should be considered before medications that are taken by mouth, absorbed through the skin, or injected. This medication may also be used by women after menopause to prevent bone loss (osteoporosis). However, there are other medications (such as raloxifene, bisphosphonates including alendronate) that are also effective in preventing bone loss and may be safer. These medications should be considered for use before estrogen/progestin treatment.
How to use ESTROGEN/PROGESTIN - ORAL
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. You may take it with food or right after a meal to prevent stomach upset. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Follow your dosing schedule carefully. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often or for a longer time than directed. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
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Faq for ESTROGEN/PROGESTIN - ORAL
Estrogen/progestin oral medication is primarily used as a form of hormonal contraception to prevent pregnancy. It is also prescribed for hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women to relieve symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
This medication contains both estrogen and progestin, which work together to prevent ovulation. It also thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Additionally, it alters the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive for implantation of a fertilized egg.
Some common side effects may include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, weight gain, changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, mood changes, and decreased libido. It is important to note that these side effects can vary from person to person.
When used correctly, estrogen/progestin oral medication has a high effectiveness rate in preventing pregnancy. However, it is important to take the medication daily at the same time to maximize its contraceptive effectiveness.
Like any medication, there are potential health risks associated with taking estrogen/progestin oral medication. These risks can include an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, breast and cervical cancer, and liver problems. It is important to discuss your medical history and any pre-existing conditions with your healthcare provider before starting this medication.
Yes, estrogen/progestin oral medication can be used for hormone replacement therapy to alleviate menopausal symptoms. It helps to replenish declining hormone levels and can effectively reduce symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.
To ensure maximum contraceptive efficacy, it is typically recommended to use backup contraception methods for the first seven days of starting the medication. However, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Yes, estrogen/progestin oral medication is sometimes prescribed to regulate irregular menstrual cycles. It can help establish a more predictable and regular pattern, reducing the frequency or severity of irregular bleeding.
Yes, certain medications and substances can interact with estrogen/progestin oral medication, reducing its effectiveness or causing adverse reactions. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.
Warning
WARNING: Estrogens, either used alone or with a progestin, have rarely caused very serious side effects. Discuss the risks and benefits of hormone treatment with your doctor. Estrogens and progestins should not be used to prevent heart disease or dementia. In postmenopausal women, estrogen when used with a progestin can increase the risk of heart disease (such as heart attacks), stroke, serious blood clots in the lungs/legs, dementia, and cancer of the breast/ovaries. The risk for serious side effects may depend on the dose of estrogen and the length of time it is used. Therefore, this medication should be used at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest amount of time. Discuss the use of this medication with your doctor regularly (for example, every 3 to 6 months) to see if you still need to use it. If you will be using this medication long-term, you should have regular complete physical exams (for example, once a year) as directed by your doctor. See also Notes section.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
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